For Malaysians traveling to China, WeChat isn’t just a messaging app—it’s your lifeline for communication, payments, and daily life. From ordering food to taking taxis, most Chinese services rely heavily on WeChat or Alipay. Here’s everything you need to know before your trip.
Why Do I Need WeChat When Traveling to China? 🤔
Unlike Malaysia, where cash and cards are widely used, China has largely transitioned to mobile payments. Many restaurants, shops, and even street vendors accept WeChat Pay or Alipay only.
Key reasons Malaysians need WeChat:
- Messaging: Stay connected with friends, family, and local contacts. WeChat is widely used for social communication.
- Mobile Payments: Pay for food, transport, attractions, and even small purchases like snacks or drinks.
- Booking Services: You can order taxis, food delivery, and even hotel services through WeChat mini-programs.
- Convenience: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; QR code payments are quick and widely accepted.
In short, without WeChat, your daily life in China could be limited and inconvenient.
How to Set Up WeChat 📝
Setting up WeChat is simple and can be done before you leave Malaysia:
source from WeChat - Free messaging and calling app
- Download the App: Available on iOS App Store or Google Play Store.
- Register Your Account: Use your Malaysian mobile number (+60) to verify your account.
- Set a Password: Create a secure password for login.
- Add Contacts: Import friends from your phone book or scan QR codes.
- Verify Your Account: WeChat may ask for verification via SMS.
Once your account is ready, you can start using the messaging and social features immediately.
Can I Use WeChat Pay Without a Chinese Bank Account? 💳
Yes! Previously, only Chinese bank accounts could be linked. Now, WeChat allows certain foreign cards to be used for payments. However, there are limitations on transaction amounts and some services may still require a Chinese bank account.
Good news for Malaysians:
- You can link Visa or Mastercard issued outside China.
- Payments are accepted in most shops, restaurants, and online mini-programs.
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How to Set Up WeChat Pay
Follow these 4 steps (no Chinese bank account needed):
- Download WeChat: Get the international version from your app store.
- Activate WeChat Pay:
- Tap Me > Services > Wallet.
- If “Wallet” isn’t visible, go to Me > Settings > General > Features and enable it.
- Verify Identity: Submit a passport photo and personal details.
- Add Your Foreign Card: Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Diners Club, or Discover.
How to Link a Foreign Credit Card to WeChat 💳
- Open WeChat and go to Me → Wallet → Cards → Add Card.
- Enter your foreign credit card details (Visa, Mastercard).
- Verify your card via SMS or bank confirmation.
- Once confirmed, your card will be available for payments.
⚠️ Note: Some cards may not be supported for certain merchants, especially small vendors.
How to Pay with WeChat Pay in China 🛍️
Paying is straightforward:
- Open WeChat → Me → Wallet → QR Code.
- Show your QR code to the merchant or scan their QR code.
- Enter the payment amount (if required) and confirm.
- Payment is complete instantly.
Scan Merchant's QR Codes
Scan codes at stores, taxis, or street vendors. Tap "+" > Scan
Merchant Scan ur QR Code
or Show ur code for merchant to scan: Tap "+" > Money
WeChat Pay is accepted at:
- Restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors 🍜
- Retail shops, malls, and convenience stores 🛒
- Public transport, taxis, and ride-hailing services 🚖
Are There Transaction Fees with WeChat Pay? 💰
- Using foreign cards may incur international transaction fees from your bank.
- Domestic payments with a Chinese bank account are generally free.
- Currency conversion fees may apply if your card is not in RMB.
Tip for Malaysians: Check with your card issuer about overseas transaction fees before traveling.
WeChat Pay vs. Alipay: Which Should You Use? ⚖️
- WeChat Pay: More widely used for messaging integration and small payments. Ideal for social sharing and mini-programs.
- Alipay: Slightly more accepted for online payments and official government or large stores.
For most travelers, WeChat Pay is sufficient, especially if you’re already using WeChat for messaging.
Limitations on WeChat Pay for Foreign Cards 🚫
- Some small vendors or street vendors may only accept Chinese bank accounts.
- Maximum transaction amounts may be lower than domestic accounts.
- Linking multiple foreign cards may not be supported simultaneously.
Is WeChat Pay Safe? 🔒
Yes! WeChat Pay is considered safe if you follow these tips:
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add a payment password and SMS verification.
- Monitor Transactions: Check your wallet regularly for any suspicious activity.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Use a secure network for financial transactions.
- Update the App: Keep WeChat updated to benefit from security patches.
Most Malaysian travelers use WeChat Pay safely every day in China without issues.
For Malaysians traveling to China, WeChat is essential—both for communication and mobile payments. Setting it up and linking a foreign card is straightforward, and using WeChat Pay makes your trip convenient and cash-free. While there are some limitations for foreign cards, following basic security precautions ensures a safe and smooth experience.
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FAQs about Wechat
Can I register for WeChat using a Malaysian phone number?
Yes. Just select +60 (Malaysia) as your region code during registration.Can Malaysians register WeChat in Malaysia before going to China?
Yes, it’s better to register in Malaysia with your Malaysian phone number before your trip.Can Malaysians use WeChat Pay in China?
Yes. You can link your Touch ‘n Go eWallet (TNG eWallet) to WeChat Pay for payments in China. This allows Malaysians to pay at most shops that accept WeChat Pay.Do I need to verify my identity to use WeChat Pay?
Yes. You must complete real-name verification in TNG eWallet (linked to your IC/passport).Can I withdraw money from WeChat Pay in China back to Malaysia?
No. You can spend via WeChat Pay/TNG eWallet but cannot directly withdraw cash in China.Is WhatsApp or Facebook blocked in China?
Yes. WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and many apps are blocked. WeChat is the most reliable way to communicate in China.Is cash still accepted in China?
Cash is rarely used. Some places accept it, but most prefer mobile payment (WeChat or Alipay).Can I use my Malaysian credit card in China?
Generally not for small shops. Big hotels may accept Visa/Mastercard, but daily life relies on WeChat/Alipay.